How to Pick the Best Food for Your Adult Cat in 2025
Did you know that 95% of cat owners admit they feel overwhelmed when standing in the pet food aisle? You are not alone because this includes myself and I am a certified veterinary assistant.
Choosing the right cat food can feel like deciphering a foreign language with all those ingredient lists and marketing claims. But here’s the thing – your furry kiddo’s health, energy levels, and longevity depend heavily on what goes in their food bowl every day, just like humans. Whether you’re a first-time cat parent or looking to upgrade your kitty’s current diet, I will walk you through everything you need to know in detail to make an informed decision. From understanding nutritional requirements to spotting red flags on labels, this comprehensive guide will transform you from a confused shopper into a confident cat food connoisseur! There is no judgement on what you decide. Please pick based on what your budget is, your lifestyle, your cat’s lifestyle and taste preferences. Be patient with yourself and the process. Mine was a few years of research and months of getting to know my cats. You got this!
Before doing a deep dive into this article, ask yourself these questions:
If money and time was not an issue, what food would I most prefer to feed my cat? Dry, canned wet food, freeze dried or raw.
I was talking to my boyfriend when he asked me this question.
Why would I prefer this option?
I initially chose fully wet canned food diet for my cats. I chose this option because cats are carnivores and have a mostly or all meat diet is very healthy for them. The moisture content for wet canned food is very good for cats, and my cats do love their wet food.
Can we afford this option, right now?
At the time, the answer was no. But this did not stop me from spoiling my cats with wet food. We decided to do two small dry meals (one in the morning and one in the evening) then one wet food meal in the afternoon. Our schedule at the time did allow us to feed them 3 times a day and they were excited for each meal. We also made it a goal to afford to feed them all wet food one day and we have now succeeded. Although we decided to go with branded raw food instead.
Go over these questions by yourself or with your partner. You can write them down or make a mental note.
Understanding an Adult Cat’s Nutritional Needs
Macronutrients vs. Micronutrients
Macronutrients are nutrients the body needs in large quantities while micronutrients are nutrients that the body needs in smaller quantities.
Essential Macronutrients Cats Require
Protein: This is a Chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, mackerel, beef, lamb, eggs, rabbit, duck and venison (amino acids from animal meat and tissue- Arginine, Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Taurine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Valine- describe jobs for each?)
Fats: This is the most energy rich nutrient for cats instead of carbohydrates. It serves as a transport molecule and conducts nerve impulses, helps skin and coat health, helps wound healing, helps with decreasing inflammation and brain function (Fatty acids- omega-3 and omega-6; healthy fatty food- salmon, chicken, liver and beef)
Carbohydrates: Since cats are carnivores they do not need carbohydrates for energy. Their bodies can process some specific carbohydrates but not many like dogs or humans.
Essential Micronutrients Cats Require
Amino acids are provided by animal meat and tissue. The list of amino acids cats need are as follows:
Arginine
Histidine
Isoleucine
Leucine
Lysine
Methionine
Phenylalanine
Taurine
Threonine
Tryptophan
Valine
Fatty acids are provided through fish and cat-safe fish oil supplements. They include omega-3 and omega-6.
Important Vitamins and Minerals:
Calcium
Phosphorus
Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium
Iron
Zinc
Copper
Iodine
Selenium
Vitamins A, B, C, D and E
Cat Nutrition: Guide to Cat Food Nutrients | PetMD
Feeding Your Cat | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cat Nutritional Needs
Indoor cats would need lower calorie and higher fiber content for hairball control. This is because indoor cats tend to be (not always) less active than outdoor cats since they usually have limited space. Outdoor cats would need higher calories and higher protein to keep up an active lifestyle.• Special considerations for spayed/neutered cats- feed 20-30% less calories
Understanding AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statements
For these specifics, I will provide websites below to provide most accurate information:
“Complete and Balanced” Pet Food | FDA
Decoding Cat Food Labels
What “Complete and Balanced” Really Means
Complete and balanced means the product contains all necessary nutrients for a cat’s health and in correct proportions for specific life stages stated on the product’s label.
*Look for AAFCO for “kitten”, “adult”, or “all life stages” label*
How to Read Ingredient Lists Effectively
Ingredients are listed in order by weight, therefore, the first 3-5 ingredients are most important. (provide picture)
For cat food, look for named animal proteins (chicken, salmon, beef, rabbit, turkey). If you are looking for more quality food it is best to avoid “protein flavor” (ex: chicken flavor) or “with protein” (ex: with chicken).
It is best to try to avoid food with lots of fillers that are labeled early in the list. This includes corn, wheat gluten, peas, or tapioca. For cats, they typically use peas and tapioca which is not ideal for cats since they are carnivores.
Whole food ingredients are better than heavily processed ingredients if you are looking for quality food. A good rule of thumb is, it is good if you can read and understand the words you are reading (unless you are highly knowledgeable in food chemicals or chemistry).
Understanding Guaranteed Analysis Panels
Guaranteed Analysis panels is used mostly for pet food. It tells you the minimum protein, minimum fat, maximum fiber and maximum moisture their product contains. I have attached the link for AAFCO Guaranteed Analysis minimum and maximum requirements for dry and wet cat food.
Recognizing Marketing Tricks
“High protein”, “premium”, “gourmet” are commonly labeled on the front of the food label and are all not indicative of better food quality or health benefits. Look at the ingredients and food label and follow previous guidelines stated above of what to look for.
“Grain-Free” is technically true, but hides the use of other processed carbohydrates like peas or tapioca which are not most ideal for cats.
“Human-Grade” has no significant meaning in pet food.
“Natural” means no artificial or manufactured ingredients; says nothing about overall healthiness of product or ingredients’ origins.
Keep in mind the meat content on the front of the label and in the ingredient list on the label. “Chicken Flavor” means about 0-3% chicken; “with chicken” means about 4% chicken; “Chicken” (as the first ingredient) means at least 26% chicken.
Quality Protein Sources vs. Fillers
"Meat-by-products” or “meat digest” means the product includes non-edible parts of animals that are left over after the meat was processed. This includes:
Bones
Skin
Feathers
Hooves
Organs (such as liver, kidneys, spleen, etc)
Blood
By-products are generally safe for cats to consume in moderation. They can be a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. They mimic a cat’s diet if they lived in the wild. It is also a cost-effective way to provide your kitty nutrition. I would keep in mind that meat-by-products can vary widely in quality as certain by-products can be low in nutrients and contain toxins and contaminates. There is also potential risk for cats to be allergic to a specific animal(s) by-product due to your kitty’s genetics or the amount of toxin or contaminates in the by-product. With that, look for AFFCO logo on the label or brand’s website.
Main Ingredients to Look for in Quality Cat Food
Quality Animal Protein Sources
Chicken and turkey are the most popular, affordable and most digestible sources of protein. Turkey is an excellent source of taurine.
Tuna, salmon, mackerel are wonderful sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy coat and brain function. You can also supplement other sources of protein with cat safe fish oil supplements.
Beef and lamb are reliable for iron especially lean cuts.
Eggs and egg whites are a good source of protein add on to other sources of protein.
Organ meats (certain by-products) highly digestible and contain certain sources of protein, vitamins and minerals.
Rabbit, Duck and Venison are the best sources of protein for cats with sensitivities and food (protein) allergies. These are called “novel protein” sources. They are not an owner’s typical first go-to due to these sources of protein being more expensive.
• Prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health
Typically sourced from legumes, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and chicory that are not digestible for cats but support their digestive tract.
Red Flag Ingredients to Avoid
Artificial colors and flavors
Preservatives (BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin)
Antioxidants (butylated hydroxyanisole, tert-butylhydroquinone)
Indigestible Ingredients: Gluten, Potato starch, Guar gum, and Xanthan gum
High-Carbohydrate Ingredients: Choose foods with a moderate amount of carbohydrates (around 10-15%)
Grains (other than rice in small amounts)
Fruits (except for small amounts of berries)
Vegetables (except for leafy greens and broccoli)
Other Problematic Ingredients: Rawhide, Bones, Milk (for adult cats), Garlic, and Onion
• Fillers and low-quality proteins provide little nutritional value and can lead to obesity and digestive issues.
Artificial additives can cause allergic reactions and health problems.
Indigestible ingredients can cause gastrointestinal upset and blockages.
High-carbohydrate ingredients can contribute to weight gain and diabetes.
Other problematic ingredients can be toxic or harmful to cats
onions, garlic, and chives (causing anemia), chocolate and caffeine (toxic methylxanthines), grapes and raisins (potential kidney failure), alcohol
Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Making the Right Choice
• Benefits and drawbacks of wet cat food
High Moisture Content:Wet food helps cats stay hydrated, which is crucial for urinary tract and kidney health, especially for cats who don't drink enough water.
High Protein:As obligate carnivores, cats require high levels of animal protein. Wet food often contains more protein and animal-based fats, making it a more natural diet.
Lower Carbohydrates:Many wet foods have fewer carbohydrates compared to dry kibble, which is beneficial for cats with certain health conditions like diabetes.
Palatability:The appealing aroma and taste of wet food can make it a better choice for picky eaters, senior cats, or those with dental problems or a reduced sense of smell.
Dental Benefits:The moisture and texture of wet food can be easier to chew for senior cats or those missing teeth.
Weight Management:Wet food has lower caloric density, making it easier to manage your cat's weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related issues.
Cons of Wet Cat Food
Higher Cost:Wet cat food is generally more expensive than dry kibble, which can be a significant factor for owners with multiple cats or a tight budget.
Short Shelf Life After Opening:Wet food spoils quickly once opened and must be refrigerated, becoming unsuitable for prolonged grazing.
Potential for Mess:Wet food can be messier to serve and eat than dry food.
Not for Automatic Feeders:Due to its perishable nature and texture, wet food is generally unsuitable for use in automatic feeders.
• Advantages and disadvantages of dry kibble
Convenience:Dry food is easy to store and serve, with a long shelf life, making it ideal for busy owners and automatic feeders.
Cost-Effective:It is generally more affordable than wet food, offering more concentrated nutrients and calories per volume.
Dental Health:The crunchy texture of kibble helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on a cat's teeth through chewing, although it is not a substitute for regular dental care.
Weight Management:The high-energy-density of dry food can efficiently provide calories to thin cats.
Cons of Dry Cat Food
Low Moisture Content:Dry food contains very little water, forcing cats to increase their overall water intake to stay hydrated.
Higher Carbohydrate Content:Compared to wet food, dry food tends to have a higher carbohydrate percentage, which can be problematic for diabetic cats.
Risk of Obesity:The high calorie density and easy availability make it simple for cats to overeat, potentially leading to weight gain.
Increased Risk of Urinary & Kidney Issues:The lack of moisture in dry food can increase the risk of urinary tract and kidney problems, as the cat's water intake may not be sufficient to flush toxins.
Less Nutritionally Complete:Dry food is less protein-dense and more carb-dense than wet food, which can be a concern for an obligate carnivore like a cat.
Pros and Cons of Branded raw food
Nutrient Density:Proponents claim raw food has more natural vitamins and minerals compared to processed foods, as processing can destroy heat-sensitive nutrients.
Digestibility:The absence of fillers and additives found in some commercial foods may lead to less bloating and firmer stools.
Skin and Coat Health:The natural fats in raw diets can contribute to a shinier coat and healthier skin.
Dental Health:Chewing on raw bones, a component of some raw diets, can help clean teeth naturally.
Palatability:Some cats may find raw food more appealing and easier to eat.
Potential Cons & Risks
Pathogen Contamination:Raw meat can harbor bacteria (like Salmonella, E. coli) and parasites (Toxoplasma gondii) that pose a health risk to both the cat and the people handling the food, especially to children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.
Nutritional Imbalance:Balancing a raw diet is complex, as the lack of consistency in raw ingredients can lead to nutritional deficiencies (like taurine deficiency) or excesses that cause health problems.
Injury Risk:Feeding raw bones can pose a risk of dental fractures or internal injuries.
Cost and Inconvenience:Ready-to-serve raw meals can be expensive, and the limited shelf life of thawed raw food requires careful handling and storage.
Lack of Scientific Evidence:There is no scientific consensus that raw diets are superior to high-quality commercial foods, with claims of benefits often based on anecdotal evidence rather than robust data.
Important Considerations
Consult a Vet:Always consult a veterinarian before transitioning your cat to a raw diet to ensure it is nutritionally complete and balanced for your cat's specific needs.
Prioritize Hygiene:If you choose to feed raw, strict hygiene practices are essential to minimize the risk of pathogen exposure to your family and pets.
Consider Alternatives:High-quality canned or dry foods can provide your cat with complete and balanced nutrition, often without the risks associated with raw diets
• Combination feeding strategies
Rotational Diet:Offer wet food for one meal and dry food for another, providing variety and ensuring a balanced intake of both nutritional types.
Blended Feeding:Combine wet and dry food in the same bowl at mealtime. This requires carefully calculating the total portion size of both foods.
Topping Method:Place a small amount of wet food on top of your cat's dry food to entice them, especially if they are a picky eater or need extra moisture.
Key Considerations
Portion Control:When mixing wet and dry food, ensure you don't overfeed. A general rule is to use half the recommended amount of each type of food to reach the total daily portion.
Freshness:Wet food should be refrigerated after opening and served within a few hours. Discard any uneaten wet food promptly to prevent spoilage.
Serving Temperature:Most cats prefer wet food at room temperature, so let cold food sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.
Consult Your Vet:Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on portion sizes and the best balance of wet and dry food for your individual cat's age, activity level, and health.
Nutritional Balance:Look for high-quality wet foods labeled "complete and balanced" to ensure your cat receives all necessary vitamins and minerals
Freeze dried food
Pros
High-Quality Nutrition: Freeze-drying preserves the high nutrient content found in raw ingredients, offering a minimal and natural source of food for cats.
Long Shelf Life: Freeze-dried food can last for years without spoilage, making it convenient for storage and ideal for emergencies or travel.
Shelf-Stable & Lightweight: The process removes moisture, making the food lightweight and easy to ship and store without needing refrigeration.
Palatability: The taste and texture can be appealing to cats, and it can be easily rehydrated with water or pet-safe broth, similar to wet food.
Raw-Like Diet: It provides a diet that closely resembles a cat's natural, raw food diet without the mess and preparation time of raw food.
Cons
Cost: Freeze-dried cat food is generally more expensive than other types of pet food.
Requires Rehydration: Most freeze-dried foods need moisture added before feeding, which requires an extra preparation step.
Potential Nutritional Imbalance: Not all freeze-dried foods are nutritionally complete for cats, and some may lack necessary vitamins and minerals.
Food Safety Risks: Unless the raw ingredients are cooked or pasteurized, the final product is a raw diet that can carry a risk of bacterial contamination.
Energy-Intensive Process: The freeze-drying process itself uses a significant amount of energy.
Picky Eaters: Some cats may find the texture crumbly and may refuse to eat it until moisture is added back
• Moisture content considerations for urinary health
• Cost comparison and convenience factors- use Kani and Jace Examples
Dry
Wet
Raw
Choosing the Right Food for Your Cat’s Lifestyle
• Best foods for indoor cats with lower activity levels
• High-energy formulas for active outdoor cats
• Weight management options for overweight cats
• Foods for cats with sensitive stomachs
• Senior preparation foods for aging adults
Nutrition and Weight: Mature Adult and Senior Cats - AAHA
High-Quality Protein:
Elderly cats often have difficulty digesting and absorbing nutrients, so a higher protein content is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
Moisture Content:
Senior cats can struggle with dehydration and decreased thirst sensitivity, so wet food or increasing water intake is crucial for hydration.
Digestibility:
A highly digestible diet aids in nutrient absorption, which is important as a cat's digestive tract becomes less efficient with age.
Antioxidants:
Increased levels of antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, can support a declining immune system.
Taurine:
This essential amino acid, found in meat-based proteins, is vital for heart health in senior cats.
Healthy Fats:
While some geriatric cats have difficulty digesting fats, they remain an important part of a complete and balanced diet.
Practical Feeding Tips
Veterinary Consultation:
Your veterinarian is the best resource for creating a personalized feeding plan, as each senior cat has unique needs.
Monitor Weight:
Regularly weigh your cat to ensure they maintain a lean, healthy body condition and adjust portions as needed.
Consider Wet Food:
Canned foods are a great option as they provide essential moisture and are often softer, making them easier for cats with dental issues to eat.
Increase Water Intake:
Place multiple bowls of fresh water in various locations throughout the house, or consider a pet fountain, to encourage more drinking.
Adjust Meal Size:
Older cats may prefer smaller, more frequent meals to help with digestion and appetite, especially if they have difficulty chewing.
Palatability:
A faded sense of smell and taste can make senior cats picky eaters; warm food slightly to enhance its aroma, making it more appealing
Popular Cat Food Brands: What Veterinarians Recommend
• Premium brands worth the investment
Hills Science Diet, Royal Canine, Purina Pro Plan, Iams Active Health
• Budget-friendly options that don’t compromise quality
Dry: Iams Active Health and Purina Pro Plan
Wet: Iams Perfect Portions and Purina Pro Plan
Branded Raw: Viva Raw and Darwin’s Natural
Freeze-dried:
• Prescription diets for specific health conditions
Types of Prescription Diets
Urinary Health:Designed to dissolve struvite crystals and prevent their recurrence, supporting overall bladder health.
Kidney Support (e.g., k/d):Formulated with controlled phosphorus and protein levels to help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Digestive Care (e.g., i/d):Contains highly digestible ingredients and prebiotics to support cats with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal upset.
Metabolic & Weight Management:Formulated to support a healthy metabolism and promote satiety, helping cats lose weight safely.
Food Sensitivities & Allergies:Limited ingredient or hydrolyzed protein formulas help manage food sensitivities.
Other Conditions:Prescription diets are also available for other conditions, such as liver support, managing liver disease (hepatic diets), and addressing general stress (feline calm diets).
Popular Brands
Hill's Prescription Diet:Offers a wide range of formulas for various conditions, including urinary, kidney, and weight management diets.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet:Provides specialized diets for urinary issues, renal support, and food sensitivities.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets:Includes options for urinary care (UR), overweight management (OM), and general gastrointestinal support (EN).
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet:Another veterinary brand offering therapeutic diets for cats.
• Raw and freeze-dried food considerations
Potential Cons & Risks
Pathogen Contamination:Raw meat can harbor bacteria (like Salmonella, E. coli) and parasites (Toxoplasma gondii) that pose a health risk to both the cat and the people handling the food, especially to children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.
Nutritional Imbalance:Balancing a raw diet is complex, as the lack of consistency in raw ingredients can lead to nutritional deficiencies (like taurine deficiency) or excesses that cause health problems.
Injury Risk:Feeding raw bones can pose a risk of dental fractures or internal injuries.
Cost and Inconvenience:Ready-to-serve raw meals can be expensive, and the limited shelf life of thawed raw food requires careful handling and storage.
Lack of Scientific Evidence:There is no scientific consensus that raw diets are superior to high-quality commercial foods, with claims of benefits often based on anecdotal evidence rather than robust data.
Important Considerations
Consult a Vet:Always consult a veterinarian before transitioning your cat to a raw diet to ensure it is nutritionally complete and balanced for your cat's specific needs.
Prioritize Hygiene:If you choose to feed raw, strict hygiene practices are essential to minimize the risk of pathogen exposure to your family and pets.
Consider Alternatives:High-quality canned or dry foods can provide your cat with complete and balanced nutrition, often without the risks associated with raw diets
• International vs. domestic brand comparisons
Transitioning to New Cat Food Safely
• Step-by-step transition timeline (7-10 days)
• Signs your cat is adjusting well to new food
• What to do if your cat refuses new food
• Managing digestive upset during transitions
• When to consult your veterinarian
Common Cat Food Mistakes to Be Aware Of
• Overfeeding and portion control issues
It is best to calculate your cat’s caloric intake per day and match it to the chosen food in order to avoid weight gain and worst-case health concerns from long term weight gain
• Feeding dog food to cats
This is not recommended as dog food can process more carbohydrates there for protein content may not be as high as it needs to be for cats. This can cause malnutrition and upset stomach
• Ignoring expiration dates and storage
Do not ignore expiration dates and storage requirements. This is important for your kitty’s health
• Choosing food based solely on price
You are more than welcome to do this because I understand not everyone can afford the more expensive options, just keep in mind the risks. Just like picking your food at the grocery store.
• Not considering your cat’s individual preferences
This is difficult to keep up at times. I say this from personal experience. It is not impossible, though. It would be best to feed either in separate rooms, on different levels, or invest in a collar motion activated feeder.
Conclusion:
Selecting the perfect adult cat food doesn’t have to be rocket science! Remember, the best food for your feline friend combines high-quality ingredients, meets AAFCO standards, and suits your cat’s individual lifestyle and preferences. Start by prioritizing real animal protein, avoiding harmful fillers, and considering whether wet, dry, or combination feeding works best for your household. Don’t forget to transition gradually and monitor your cat’s response to any dietary changes. Your veterinarian is always your best resource for personalized nutrition advice, especially if your cat has specific health concerns. Take action today by examining your current cat food label using the tips in this guide – your kitty’s health and happiness are worth the effort!